MEDFORD, Mass. – Promoter John “The Quietman” Ruiz, former two-time World Boxing Association heavyweight champion, announced today that the new American Fighting Championship (AFO) will promote a Pro-Am mixed-martial-arts show Saturday night, April 26 at Tyngsboro Sports Center in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts.

The new AFO’s inaugural event under Ruiz’ ownership tentatively calls for professional fights, in addition to the launching of “The Battleground Series: Redemption” amateur tournament, which will feature some of New England’s top fighters in various weight classes.

All participating fighters in the tournament will receive commemorative items. Each weight-division winner will be awarded a world-class championship belt (see below), while a traveling trophy will be presented to the gym producing the most champions.

(belt designed and created by Johnny Masis)

“Not only do I want fighters to be recognized,” Ruiz explained, “I also want MMA gym wars for bragging rights. I think that’s missing in MMA. I was a pro boxer but fighting is fighting. I wanted to create a tournament to determine who the best fighters and gym is in New England. I want to promote my gym (Quietman Sports Gym) and its fighters, of course, but AFO shows will also promote participating all MMA fighters and gyms in New England so the public knows which gyms have the best fighters. We’re all very excited and looking forward to launching the new AFO with this tournament.”

Pro and amateur MMA fighters interested in fighting on the Apr. 26 AFO show should sign-up by registering as soon as possible at www.afomma.com.

“The Battleground Series: Redemption” tournament competition will continue on a monthly basis, in a one-loss elimination format, with divisional champions eventually crowned.

Full details about the Apr. 26 show will soon be announced, including fight match-ups, ticket information, times, etc.